54 years ago
Ken Buchanan vs Ruben Navarro
Date: 12th February 1971
Venue: Sports Arena, Los Angeles, CaliforniaTitle: WBC & WBA World Lightweight Titles
Promoter: Olympic Boxing - Aileen Eaton
Referee: Arthur Mercante
Ken Buchanan
(
38
-
1
-
0
)
Weight: 134½ lbs
Ruben Navarro
(
24
-
2
-
2
)
Weight: 135 lbs
On February 12, 1971, the Sports Arena in Los Angeles hosted a pivotal bout in the lightweight division as Ken Buchanan faced Ruben Navarro for the WBC and WBA World Lightweight Titles. This match was notable for its competitive nature and the unusual circumstances leading up to it. Initially, Buchanan was set to face Mando Ramos, while Navarro was scheduled to fight Jimmy Robertson. However, with Ramos pulling out due to injury, Navarro seized the opportunity to challenge for the world title on short notice.
The fight itself was a testament to the unpredictable nature of boxing in the 1970s. Navarro, known as the "Maravilla Kid," came out aggressively, catching Buchanan off guard in the first round. Despite being knocked down, the referee, Arthur Mercante, ruled it a slip rather than a knockdown, much to the dismay of the crowd. This early momentum was crucial for Navarro, who had been training intensively in the days leading up to the bout. However, as the fight progressed, Buchanan's superior technique and stamina began to pay off. He gradually regained control, dominating the close exchanges and wearing down Navarro's resolve.
The judges' scores reflected Buchanan's dominance in the later rounds. The final decision was unanimous in his favour, with scores of 9-4 from both the referee and Judge Lee Grossman and a more emphatic 9-2 from Harry Gibbs. Navarro's early energy waned despite his valiant effort as the bout wore on, turning his performance into a damage limitation exercise. Buchanan's victory solidified his position as the undisputed lightweight champion.
Buchanan's win over Navarro was part of a remarkable period in his career. Just a few months prior, he had defeated Ismael Laguna to claim the WBA title, and this victory added the vacant WBC belt to his collection. The fight against Navarro was also notable for the controversy surrounding the judging and the tactics employed by both fighters. Buchanan criticized Navarro's aggressive style, suggesting it bordered on cheating, while Navarro felt he should have been awarded a knockdown in the first round. Despite these disagreements, both fighters earned respect for their performances, with Navarro acknowledging Buchanan's skill and Buchanan praising Navarro's tenacity.
The aftermath of the fight saw Buchanan preparing for even tougher challenges, including a highly anticipated bout against Roberto Durán later in 1972.
Ken Buchanan vs Ruben Navarro on YouTube
